CHARLOTTE -- The Carolina Panthers are focusing on the future following the team’s 31-26 loss to the Saints, Sunday, the last game with Jerry Richardson as owner.

"He brought a professionalism here that people can have pride and have something to look forward to,” running back Jonathan Stewart said.

Several players said they're not thinking about the team's sale. While tight end Greg Olsen said he’s following it as closely as he can.

Olsen hopes a new owner doesn’t mean changes to the Panthers core group in the front office or on the field.  

“This isn't your typical changing of the guard,” Olsen said. “This is a team that's been four out of five playoffs, Super Bowl appearance, NFC champs."

The most viable ownership group to speak publicly is one headed by Felix Sabates who's said his group features seven investors, including two current Panthers minority owners.

“I do know Felix. He and I have talked but really just about football in general. Nothing like [buying the team],” head coach Ron Rivera said. “But I hope it is somebody that’s most certainly willing to keep the team here."

The Panthers did not respond to our questions regarding potential buyers or a timeline for the sale.

Sabates has said if his bid is successful, the team will need a new venue.

Over the weekend, Steph Curry reiterated he's serious about trying to buy the team. Sabates even said he's spoken to Dell Curry about Steph’s involvement in the team bid.